Rovaniemi Airport, the gateway to Finnish Lapland, handles travellers with a compact and efficient setup, ideal for those eager to explore the Arctic Circle. Located just 8 kilometres north of Rovaniemi’s city centre, this airport serves as a hub for seasonal and year-round flights, primarily operated by Finnair, Norwegian Air Shuttle, and Ryanair, connecting to Helsinki and select European destinations. Its welcoming atmosphere and streamlined operations make it a pleasant starting point for adventures in Lapland.
Access to Rovaniemi Airport is refreshingly simple, with multiple transport options ensuring a smooth journey to and from the city.
Taxis offer a quick 10-minute ride to the city centre, costing around €20, with stands readily available outside the terminal. For budget-conscious travellers, the AirportBus, operated by Pohjolan Matka, aligns with most flight schedules, delivering passengers to central hotels or the railway station for €7 in about 15 minutes. Local bus number 8 provides an even cheaper option at €3.60, connecting to the city centre in 20 minutes, though services are less frequent, so checking timetables is advisable. For those driving, the airport’s proximity to the E75 highway and ample parking, starting at €5 per day, make it convenient for self-drivers. The short distance and clear transport links ensure easy access for all travellers.
The airport’s layout is straightforward, featuring a single terminal with two levels: arrivals on the ground floor and departures upstairs. With only eight check-in counters and a handful of gates, navigation is effortless, and walking distances are minimal.
Security checks are typically quick, often under five minutes, though passengers should arrive 90 minutes early during peak winter months when tourist traffic increases. The compact design means no air bridges, so boarding often involves a short walk or bus transfer to the aircraft, which is manageable but worth noting in cold weather.
Delays at Rovaniemi are rare, thanks to its smaller size and efficient operations, but winter weather can pose challenges. Snowstorms or icy conditions may delay flights, particularly from December to February, so monitoring weather forecasts and flight updates is wise. Air traffic control issues in wider European airspace can also affect schedules, though the airport’s on-time performance remains strong, especially for Finnair’s Helsinki routes. Travellers should check flight status in advance to avoid surprises.
Dining and retail options are modest but cater well to the airport’s scale. The Arctic Circle Cafe in the departures area offers coffee, pastries, and light meals like sandwiches, while the Polar Restaurant provides heartier options such as reindeer stew and salmon soup, reflecting local flavours. Post-security, a small snack bar serves quick bites. Retail is limited to a duty-free shop with Finnish souvenirs, chocolates, and spirits, alongside a small gift shop selling Lapland-themed items like reindeer figurines. While not extensive, these options cover essentials for a short stay.
Facilities at Rovaniemi Airport are practical and traveller-friendly. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout, with no time limits, and charging stations are plentiful in the departures lounge. A children’s play area near the gates keeps young travellers entertained, and baby-changing facilities are accessible in restrooms. Passengers with reduced mobility can request assistance in advance, with ramps and lifts ensuring smooth navigation. There are no lounges or showers, but a quiet seating area offers a calm space to relax. For layovers, nearby hotels like Santa’s Hotel Santa Claus, a 10-minute drive away, provide comfortable options, though the airport’s 24-hour operation allows overnight stays in the terminal if needed.
Connections at Rovaniemi are limited, as the airport primarily serves point-to-point flights. For those connecting through Helsinki, minimum connection times are around 35 minutes for domestic flights, with clear signage guiding passengers to transfer desks. The small terminal size makes transfers quick, but international connections may require passing through security again, so allowing extra time is prudent.
